Almost nothing is more devastating than learning that a loved one has six months or fewer to live. Whether this is a sudden and unexpected diagnosis or whether one has been watching their family member’s health decline for a long time, it isn’t enjoyable. It also ushers in a time of many changes and many decisions. This is often the time when a patient ceases seeking curative care, choosing instead to enjoy the time left to them without invasive and painful medical treatments. It can be difficult sometimes for the patient’s family to accept this, but once they do, they are left with the challenge of finding the best possible way to care for the patient during this time.
Even if family members have the time and resources to provide constant care themselves, they may not have the know-how to do so. A person in their final months needs at-home medical care to reduce pain and symptoms of severe illnesses and make it possible for this time to be a pleasant one. A professional will provide this better than a loving but inexperienced spouse, child, or grandchild.
In-Home Care in Philadelphia, PA, allows compassionate professionals to provide the palliative care that people in end-of-life situations need. Not only does this service make the patient’s life more enjoyable, but it also frees up family members from the nuts-and-bolts difficulties of home nursing, giving them more time and energy to spend on the patient. Those extra moments of communication, reminiscence, and, yes, even fun will provide precious memories and comfort for both parties. Qualified staff will do everything within their power to encourage these small, valuable moments (as long as they are medically responsible), particularly if they commit to a culture of compliance.
Good hospice services will also keep the loved ones of patients in mind. They often offer bereavement support services, which can hugely benefit the family members of a fading or deceased patient. It can give them social and emotional support and tools to deal with the pain of loss. The process of entering and going through hospice care makes for an emotional and challenging time. In-Home Care in Philadelphia, PA, can make that a little bit easier for everyone involved.
